BENDIGO Braves and Lady Braves will have added competition in the 2018 South East Australian Basketball League (SEABL) season.

It follows an expansion of the league to include men’s and women’s Diamond Valley Eagles teams.

Diamond Valley’s move into SEABL will now see 15 men’s teams compete for the championship as well as 14 women’s teams.

Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence will also continue to compete in the regular season.

The latest expansion comes two years after Melbourne Tigers men’s and women’s teams were admitted to the league, while the Sydney Uni Sparks debuted last season.

“We are thrilled to have Diamond Valley enter SEABL,” said Paul Maley, Basketball Australia general manager of competitions.

“They are a strong association with a great history and an extensive footprint in the north and north-eastern suburbs of Melbourne – one of the city’s principal growth corridors which is a perfect fit for the SEABL growth strategy.”

Diamond Valley Basketball Association (DVBA) chief executive officer Ross Wignell said it was an exciting time for the club and the move to the SEABL would create some extraordinary opportunities.

“This decision delivers the best possible option for the Diamond Valley coach and player pathway along with a great opportunity for all players living north of Melbourne,” he said.